There have been a spate of awards for SPAR UK recently, with amongst others, prizes being won at the 2016 Retail Industry Awards, the Forecourt Trader of Year Awards and the Wholesale Quality Awards.

For more than 20 years, the Retail Industry Awards have become firmly established as the ‘Oscars’ of the UK grocery industry, celebrating excellence across a raft of different categories. This year, SPAR UK won a fantastic seven awards. The event is a unique occasion as it is the only time of year when the whole industry gets together to recognise and reward the independent retailers alongside the largest supermarket groups.

SPAR UK was also strongly recognised at the Forecourt Trader of the Year Awards, winning eight prizes – more than any other symbol group. The Forecourt Trader of the Year Awards is the showcase event for the petrol retailing industry and the highest accolade for any petrol retailer. It is recognition of entrepreneurial skill, imagination and dedication in running a successful business.

Another event where magnificent success was had was the 2016 Wholesale Quality Food & Drink Awards where SPAR UK won an incredible 35 awards, including the overall winner of the Wholesaler of the Year. This takes SPAR UK’s overall tally for SPAR Brand food & wine awards so far this year to 136, beating last year’s total of 118.

A Port Talbot convenience store has been chosen as the best SPAR store in the SPAR Meridian & Welsh Guild, winning the prestigious Baldwin Trophy. A family-run business, the SPAR store was opened in 2014 and was awarded for the incredible role it plays in the community and its relentless drive to succeed in spite of the tough economic times the area has endured.

The store plays a valuable role in providing the employees of the surrounding steelworks and railway yard with excellent service from early in the morning until late at night, seven days a week. The loyal customers visit the store up to three times a day. Store owner, Helen Williams said: “We are immensely proud of our link to the local community and of what we offer our customers.”